The white pearl, a gem revered for its luminous beauty and symbolic significance, holds a prominent place in both jewelry and astrological traditions. Primarily recognized as the birthstone for those born under the Atham Nakshatra in Hindu astrology, its association extends to the lunar sign of Cancer and the month of June in Western traditions. This article will delve into the historical context, astrological significance, and gemological aspects of the pearl, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The pearl’s history is deeply intertwined with human civilization, predating written records. Its natural beauty and rarity have made it a coveted treasure for millennia. While the provided sources do not detail the pearl’s earliest history, they focus on its specific role within the Atham Nakshatra system. According to these sources, the pearl, known as Muthu or Pavizham in various Indian languages, is the designated birthstone for individuals born under this Nakshatra, which is ruled by the moon god, Chandra.
Wearing the pearl is believed to offer protection from the negative influences of Chandra and amplify its positive energies. This connection to the moon reinforces the pearl’s long-held association with tranquility, intuition, and emotional balance. The sources indicate that the pearl is not merely an adornment but a tool for enhancing one’s life, promising improvements in career, health, mental strength, peace, prosperity, and good fortune. It is believed to bestow name, fame, and luxury upon the wearer.
Astrological Significance and Wearing Rituals
The sources emphasize the importance of astrological considerations when selecting and wearing a pearl. The Vedic system, as outlined, involves examining the janma-naksatra – the birth constellation – and the ruling planet associated with it. If the Moon is posited in a favorable position within the horoscope, a pearl is often recommended.
Specific rituals are prescribed for maximizing the pearl’s benefits. Purchasing a pearl on a Friday during the Shukla Paksha (ascending moon cycle) is considered auspicious, particularly when the Nakshatra is Bharani, Purva Phalguni, or Purvakshad. The setting of the pearl is also important; it should be mounted in silver, white gold, or platinum in an open-backed ring to allow direct contact with the skin. The recommended minimum weight is one rattika (approximately 0.9 carats).
A detailed ritual is described for activating the pearl’s energy. This involves immersing the ring in raw cow’s milk, washing it with Ganga water (or water stored in a copper pot overnight), and placing it on a cloth bearing a Saturn Yantra drawn with red sandalwood paste, rice paste, or roli. Chanting the mantra “Aum Sham Shanaishcharaye Namah Aum” or “Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya” 108 times completes the process before wearing the ring on a Saturday evening.
Gemological Properties
While the provided sources do not offer a comprehensive gemological profile of the pearl, they do offer some descriptive characteristics. The ideal pearl, according to these sources, exhibits a “snow white” color and “excellent” luster. A specific example is given: an oval-shaped pearl measuring 25 x 20 x 6 mm, priced at Rs. 1200.00 per carat, complete with a certificate of authenticity.
The sources do not detail the pearl’s chemical composition or formation process. However, they do allude to the potential for pearls to absorb negative energy from those who handle them during cutting and polishing. A suggested remedy is to soak the pearl in a solution overnight to cleanse it.
Other Gemstones and Associated Rituals
The sources also briefly touch upon other gemstones and their corresponding astrological associations and rituals. These include:
- Ruby: Ruled by the Sun, associated with the Leo moon sign and the Krittika birth star.
- Coral: Ruled by Mars, associated with Aries and Scorpio moon signs and the Mrigashira birth star.
- Emerald: Ruled by Mercury, associated with Gemini and Virgo moon signs and the Punarvasu birth star.
- Yellow Sapphire: Ruled by Jupiter, associated with Sagittarius and Pisces moon signs and the Punarvasu birth star.
- Diamond: Ruled by Venus, associated with Taurus and Libra moon signs and the Bharani birth star.
- Blue Sapphire: Ruled by Saturn, associated with Capricorn and Aquarius moon signs and the Pushyam birth star.
- Hessonite: Ruled by Rahu (Moon’s North Node).
- Cat’s Eye: Ruled by Ketu (Moon’s South Node).
Similar rituals involving specific days for purchase, metal settings, yantras, mantras, and asanas are prescribed for each of these gemstones, demonstrating a holistic approach to gemstone selection and utilization within Vedic astrology. The sources provide numerical yantras for Saturn and Venus, further illustrating the ritualistic aspect of gemstone usage.
Peridot: A Brief Diversion
The sources include a short section on Peridot, the birthstone for August. It is described as a yellowish-green to brownish-green olivine with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Historically, Peridot was believed to grant everlasting life, and Egyptians even replaced the hearts of mummified pharaohs with Peridot to aid their journey into the afterlife. Care instructions emphasize avoiding steam cleaning and ultrasonic cleaners due to the stone’s sensitivity to temperature changes, recommending instead mild soap and a toothbrush for cleaning.
Care and Cleaning (Pearls)
Although the provided sources do not offer specific care instructions for pearls, the information regarding Peridot suggests a general sensitivity to harsh cleaning methods. Given the pearl’s organic composition, it is reasonable to infer that similar precautions should be taken. Pearls should be protected from scratches, blows, and rapid temperature changes. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap is likely the most appropriate method for maintaining their luster.
Conclusion
The white pearl, as presented in these sources, is far more than a beautiful gem. It is a potent symbol within Hindu astrology, particularly for those born under the Atham Nakshatra. Its association with the moon, coupled with the prescribed rituals for its acquisition and wearing, underscores its perceived ability to influence health, prosperity, and mental well-being. While the gemological details are limited, the emphasis on quality – specifically, snow-white color and excellent luster – highlights the aesthetic value placed on this timeless treasure. The inclusion of information on other gemstones and their associated rituals demonstrates a broader system of astrological gemology, where each stone holds a unique significance and requires specific handling to unlock its full potential.